Good afternoon, dear readers! Your period hasn't arrived yet, but you want to know whether you're pregnant or not? A terrible suspiciousness begins, and already against this background the mood can jump! Well, there are 2 reasons why women want to quickly find out about their situation. Have you already guessed?
Certainly! A burning desire for the baby to be born! And the second reason: when it seems that we need to put off having children for now, for various reasons. But in any case, I want to find out as soon as possible! Today I will tell you how to determine pregnancy before your period in several ways. And there’s no need to guess by your hand! Let's get started.
How to understand that pregnancy has occurred if the delay has not yet begun? I’ll say right away that everyone has different harbingers of such an event. But I am guided by personal experience, the stories of my friends, communication on various forums, I managed to generalize! Yes, the most common symptoms. But let's just try to put aside suspiciousness. I know, because when the child is long-awaited, and for some time it was not possible to see 2 stripes, you try on all the symptoms. Has this already happened to you?
So, the methods:
- Basal temperature.
- General health.
- Tests and analyses.
- Traditional methods.
Oh yes! I’ll tell you what day you can determine - for a more accurate result, wait at least a week. Because no test can show this before the zygote attaches to the uterus. And it attaches approximately 7–10 days after conception. Well, of course, it’s different for everyone. Therefore, there is no point in spending money on expensive ultra-sensitive strips; the hCG hormone will appear only after the implantation of the fertilized egg.
Well, I won’t languish you any longer. Let's talk about the methods in more detail.
Basal temperature
If your baby is long-awaited and planned, you have probably already heard about the temperature measurement schedule. Or haven't you heard yet? As a rule, basal temperature is used to determine the onset of ovulation. And you need to measure it for 3 months in a row. Surprised? Yes, just to know the characteristics of your body. Well, understand that the increase occurred precisely because of ovulation, and not for any other reason.
Yes, a promotion. Moreover, the day before it the temperature drops. And after the release of the egg, the thermometer should show a little more than 37 degrees. If pregnancy does not occur, a decrease occurs, gradually a week (for some, a day) before menstruation. Well, if fertilization has occurred, then the increased indicators will last for several more months! As a rule, there is no talk of a decrease. If you don’t know when ovulation occurred, you can calculate it using an online calculator.
But the cycle may go wrong, some people have irregular periods. What to do then? In this case, I have only one piece of advice: regular monitoring of your body can only give you the answer. This state can no longer be confused with anything!
General health
Tell me, are there any changes in your body? No, we are not talking about toxicosis now. Because this unpleasant thing haunts you after a delay. Maybe you noticed something unusual? I’ve collected a few signs that can identify an interesting situation. Interesting? See:
- Implantation bleeding. During the attachment of the fertilized egg to the walls of the uterus, sometimes some capillaries are damaged. Therefore, discharge may occur within a short time (a couple of hours). Don't be alarmed that their color is a little pinkish, this is due to damaged capillaries. But in any case, if this scares you, go to the doctor! One of my friends had such bleeding. Although you can’t call it bleeding, it’s more like a daub. And she gave birth to a normal child. But before giving birth, the doctor told her that it shouldn’t be like that. And in such cases, consult a doctor. Like she was lucky.
- Discharge. Have you noticed that during ovulation, thick discharge begins, like egg white? It's correct when they are a little whitish or yellowish. So, if fertilization occurs, these secretions do not disappear, but persist!
- The breasts swell to the point of pain! And my stomach hurts down there too. This means that the baby has chosen a place for himself there, and the body is preparing for his appearance. Can this be considered a 100% method? Not always. Because some people have these sensations before menstruation.
- My mood changes and I want a special dish. I know one lady who had this happen. I couldn’t think about anything other than canned fish. She wanted it so much that the taste simply haunted her!
So a change of mood is not always trivial. You know how you usually feel in the middle of a cycle and towards its end. So draw conclusions without testing! And now about the most accurate methods.
Know more about what the female body is talking about or.
Analyzes
I have already said that it is unlikely that we will be able to find out anything before a week. And all the methods described above, done at home, do not always provide a guarantee. Rather, their combination indicates the presence of pregnancy. But even if there are no symptoms, you shouldn’t exclude the possibility of fertilization either! For an accurate determination, use laboratory tests. At worst, with dough!
I learned the happy news from the test. Just buy one with greater sensitivity. And do the analysis according to the instructions. This is not nonsense, I tell you. Because at such early stages, not all pharmacy determinants can accurately predict. Only by hCG, or more precisely, by its concentration, is it possible to make an assumption about pregnancy. And most of the hormone is collected in the morning, if you don’t go to the toilet for 5 hours first.
Well, there are 2 stripes? Or are you still tormented by expectations? Then go to the antenatal clinic! You can find out everything by blood or urine. But also, before 7 days from the expected conception, you should not go there. But, this will already determine for sure! Against the background of the delay, you will see this for yourself!
Yes, but if you are menstruating and have symptoms, consult a doctor immediately! No, there are some ladies who continue to have discharge on schedule for several months. But this is rather the exception than the rule. There may be a risk of miscarriage. Well, or the signs were related to some disease.
Traditional methods
Surely everyone has heard about dreams involving fish. Yes, some people have their dreams come true, but I wouldn’t trust it 100%. This can happen to anything! But I really liked this method: with iodine.
Place a few drops of iodine into a container with morning urine. If it dissolves, expectations will not be confirmed. And if the droplets remain on the surface, you may need to go to the doctor for a more accurate result.
And here’s another thing: dip a rag in the urine. Then drop a few drops of iodine on it. Now watch the color. Blue indicates a negative result. And purple, about the positive!
These are the folk methods. Do you know how they found out in ancient times? They mixed urine with red wine. A clear mixture indicated a positive outcome, and a cloudy mixture indicated a negative outcome.
So I can draw the following conclusion. At home, it can be more accurately determined only with the help of medical testing. And then we look at our general condition. Well, in the laboratory the most reliable test will be a blood test. As for going to the gynecologist, he will definitely refer you for laboratory tests. And, in general, if confirmed, the gynecologist will determine the onset of pregnancy by the last menstrual period, or more precisely, by their first day.
Whatever method of determination you choose, each will be relevant only after the fertilized egg has attached. Therefore, all home methods are ahead of the laboratory in only one way: if it’s the weekend, but you don’t see the doctor until Monday. So, if you are for accuracy, it is better to wait until this Monday.
Tell me, have you found any signs in yourself? What do you feel? Share your feelings in the comments! Well, don’t forget to subscribe to blog updates! Bye! See you again!
There is a period in a woman’s life when she is waiting and worrying about the future. This is pregnancy. But in order for the upcoming 40 weeks to bring joy, it is important not to miss the very first signs of pregnancy. For doctors, the primary evidence of pregnancy is a missed period. But is it? Experienced women note that some manifestations can be noticed much earlier.
First of all, a few words about conception. The female cycle is usually 28 days. It is divided into three phases: menstruation, follicular, luteal. The duration of the 1st-2nd stage is 12-14 days. During this period, the female hormone estrogen dominates; the birth of a new life during its action is impossible. But progesterone functions in parallel with it. Its peculiarity is that the quantity changes cyclically.
The apogee of the process, the beginning of the luteal phase, is shortly before the 14th day of the cycle. In the ovaries, out of four prepared, mature follicles, three stop growing. The remaining one continues its development. When the required size is reached, the follicular membrane bursts and the egg is released. This is how ovulation occurs: the woman’s body is ready for conception. The cell is sent into the fallopian tube for intercourse with the sperm.
Symptoms of pregnancy in the first days
They occur just during the period of egg implantation. The ruptured follicle transforms into a “corpus luteum”, sprouting blood vessels, releasing progesterone. Its function during this period is twofold:
- stop menstrual bleeding for the next 40 weeks;
- prepare the uterine mucosa for the attachment of a fertilized cell.
If fertilization does not occur, the “corpus luteum” stops working. The muscles of the uterus reject the endometrium through contractions, and after a few days new bleeding occurs. As a result of calculations, it was determined that conception occurs approximately on the 14-16th day of the cycle. The period of gestation and childbirth is traditionally calculated from the first day of the last menstruation. Therefore, the very first signs of pregnancy may appear 3 weeks after the start of the cycle or 7-10 days after conception.
It is advisable for the expectant mother to take a closer look and listen to her body. During this period, it is actively reconstructed for the birth of a child. This is not always convenient and sometimes leads to discomfort. But it's worth it!
On the other hand, nature gives a signal to a young woman: reconsider your life principles and rules. Everything should be subordinated to him, the emergence of a new person: a reason to quit smoking, an addiction to beer, stronger drinks. This applies to the woman herself and family members. After all, from the first days of conception, the unborn child feels the harmony of the world or its hostility. Walking in the fresh air, moderate physical activity, and swimming contribute to the smooth flow of the process.
Symptoms of pregnancy 1 week after conception
Mom still doesn’t know whether the great mystery of conception has taken place. The future baby, still in the form of one cell, has already begun its growth, a grandiose “journey”. The cell is divided into two, then there are 4 of them, then 8, 16, in geometric progression. But pregnancy has not yet occurred.
7-10 days after conception, a small lump with liquid inside is obtained, covered with a membrane and villi on top. With their help, it moves from the fallopian tube into the uterine cavity, where, under favorable circumstances, it attaches to it. Only now can we say that the woman is pregnant. The cervix becomes thicker and softer. Its lumen is closed by a mucus plug, protecting the fetus from infection.
The implantation process may be accompanied by pregnancy symptoms 1 week after conception. Let's name the most common ones that are diagnosed independently:
Minor short-term yellowish-brown discharge that appears suddenly. The young woman is perplexed - after all, it’s not time for menstruation yet. The reason is simple: the embryo is actively implanted into the mucous membrane of the uterus, which is penetrated by blood vessels. Its introduction provokes insignificant discharge. Therefore, there is no reason to panic yet.
The onset of pregnancy may manifest itself as malaise, a feeling of nasal congestion, a slight sore throat, or cough. An increase in body temperature to 37°C adds to the discomfort. Chills and slight fever may be felt. With such signs, it is better for the expectant mother to take a few days off, without aggravating the condition of pain, to protect the unborn baby. Vitamin tea, fresh fruit, home comfort will help you recover. At higher temperatures, you should seek help from a doctor. Tablets are taken “with an eye” on a possible special condition.
During this period, some women acutely feel the stuffiness of the room, lack of fresh air, and decreased blood pressure. As a result, fatigue appears, performance decreases, and dizziness and fainting occur. This can be explained by the restructuring of the body to a new rhythm caused by the production of progesterone.
Symptoms of pregnancy 1 week after conception - a sudden change in taste preferences. “You want something sour or salty” is not uncommon. Some people experience increased appetite, cravings for sweets and certain foods. At first, one can completely give in to such desires, even gluttony.
How to find out about pregnancy before delay: research methods
Sometimes the state of uncertainty for a woman planning a long-awaited pregnancy is unbearable. Tests have not yet shown a “second line,” but anxiety contributes to the release of adrenaline, which prevents normal implantation. Therefore, methods on how to find out about pregnancy before missed periods are important. In such a situation, medicine suggests:
- analysis of changes in basal temperature;
- laboratory analysis.
Conception can manifest itself with a basal temperature of 37-37.4 degrees. The increase is caused by the release of progesterone in the second phase of the cycle. For the reliability of the study, a number of conditions must be met. The woman takes measurements in the rectum with a mercury thermometer. Every day, at the same time, in the same position, without getting out of bed. Previous sleep is at least 6 hours. If the BT chart shows relatively flat readings of 37 degrees and above for several days, we can assume that there is conception.
Systematic measurements make it possible to determine the implantation of the embryo into the uterine cavity. During this period, estrogen is released: temperature values for 1 day will sharply drop to 36.4-36.6 °C, then restore to the previous level. Implantation depression on the basal temperature chart shows what has happened: pregnancy has occurred.
Laboratory tests will also help. With their help, an increase in the level of the hormone hCG, human chorionic gonadotropin, is determined. It is constantly present in the female body in small doses. Diagnosis is carried out by analyzing urine and blood. The task of the hormone during pregnancy is to “control” the harmonious combination of progesterone and estrogen in the female body, maintaining favorable conditions for the development of the child. An active increase in readings is observed after implantation of the embryo, since the substance is produced by the chorion membrane of the fetus. Lack of hCG causes rejection of the fertilized egg.
An increase in hormone levels indicates a normal pregnancy. There are special tables depending on the weekly period and concentrations. For the first week after conception (3rd from the beginning of the menstrual cycle), the level of the substance is 25-50 mIU/ml. Maximum values are reached at 8-11 weeks. Then they decrease somewhat and remain that way until childbirth. Doctors pay attention: it is not the digital indicators that are important, but the general trend of change. An insufficient increase in concentration may indicate anomalies: threat of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy. Therefore, the value of laboratory research is high.
Exploring new sensations in our body
We have outlined research methods for confirming the origin of new life. The BT method has certain disadvantages. Temperature readings can be affected by many factors: insomnia, drinking alcohol even in small doses, active evening activities. The potential for error is significant.
Laboratory analysis gives a high degree of confidence in the result. But analysis of hCG dynamics is recommended to be carried out in the same center. Since there may be different approaches to calculating the concentration of the hormone. It is carried out, most often, in private clinics, laboratories, for a fee. For many women, the laboratory method is not available due to price and living in the outback.
Somatic methods remain the most accessible for analyzing the very first signs of pregnancy before delay. Let us note a number of indirect factors. The onset of pregnancy may manifest itself with sudden nausea, vomiting, and loss of interest in food. At first, this does not cause much harm. But frequent vomiting is a reason to consult a doctor. On the one hand, the body in this state does not receive enough nutrients and loses fluid. On the other hand, during the process the walls of the abdomen become tense, leading to rejection of the embryo.
The first signs of an interesting condition are associated with another new sensation: a reaction to smells. This is a mild version of toxicosis: there is no vomiting, but some aromas cause disgust. This could be cooking meat, food; sometimes cosmetics, perfume.
Fertilization, growth, and implantation of the fetus are possible at a certain concentration of progesterone in the female body. This hormone can depress the female psyche. The result is absent-mindedness and drowsiness. It is more difficult for a woman to concentrate on work. There's no need to get upset. Usually, by the 10th week everything goes away. By this time, the formed placenta begins to produce estrogen. The expectant mother again finds a good mood, which is important for the growing baby.
We have dealt with the new “sensations”. But what happens to the female body during the period of the very first signs of pregnancy before the delay? After implantation of the fertilized egg, a slight enlargement or “swelling” of the breast is possible. For some, it becomes sensitive and painful. The skin around the nipples darkens and lumps appear. A clear liquid is released from the nipples. A woman's body is preparing to feed her unborn baby.
The implanted embryo stimulates a number of other processes. First of all, new life requires space, the uterus begins to grow. The expectant mother may feel some enlargement of the abdomen, although it is not yet noticeable. Pressure from the uterus on nearby organs may cause minor discomfort while sitting. The solution is simple: move a little, find a body position on a chair that does not cause discomfort.
A growing embryo requires a constant supply of nutrients. Therefore, the blood supply to the reproductive organs and pelvic organs is more intense. As a result, the load on the kidneys increases. Therefore, the beginning of pregnancy may be “marked” by frequent urination. But there is no need to be upset, after a while everything returns to normal. It is necessary to take into account: the uterus is located close to the bladder; As the fetus grows, pressure on surrounding organs will increase.
Symptoms of pregnancy 2 weeks after conception
Meanwhile, your baby is growing! Still called an embryo, it is a collection of living cells covered with a membrane. But he has already given his mother many new sensations, signaling: I am here with you, take care of me.
Symptoms of pregnancy at 2 weeks after conception are similar to those described earlier. The fact is that we can talk about pregnancy only after implantation of the egg into the endometrium. For some women, this process occurs on days 5-7, i.e. 1st week, for others in the range of 7-10 days, this is already the second week after conception. Take a closer look at yourself, analyze your feelings.
Sudden changes in mood, insomnia, causeless tears, anxiety, and fear may indicate the impending arrival of a child. Progesterone, actively produced by the “corpus luteum,” is to blame. Despite this negative impact on the female psyche, without it, bearing a healthy baby is impossible. The spouse and family members should treat the mood of the expectant mother with understanding and not upset her over trifles. It won't be long before everything falls into place.
Many people note that while waiting, a woman loses interest in making love. The reason for this is changed hormonal levels. If there are no medical contraindications due to miscarriage, both should not give up little joys. But we should be wary:
- discomfort during intercourse;
- uncharacteristic vaginal discharge.
Symptoms in week 2 are most often associated with new eating habits, aversion to food and certain foods. If the mother has no diseases or special contraindications, the desires of the first weeks can be satisfied. Pickles, tomatoes, fish are traditional food preferences of pregnant women. But everything needs to be done in moderation. Eating salty foods requires drinking plenty of fluids, increasing the load on the excretory system. Salt retains moisture in the cells of the body, which results in swelling of the hands and feet.
Systematic urge to vomit should cause anxiety for the expectant mother and the family environment. Some people have them after every meal. We have already talked about the loss of fluid and nutrients. In such a situation, it is necessary to urgently seek medical help. Since the body is exhausted and is constantly in a tense state, the threat of egg rejection is high. There are various methods for overcoming early toxicosis recommended by doctors.
Once again, it’s worth focusing on low-alcohol, alcoholic drinks. In the second week after conception, the fetus still does not have a placental barrier that can filter out everything that causes harm. A woman who decides to have a child should give up any unhealthy habits. Because nicotine and alcohol entering the baby’s body through the bloodstream poison him.
A laboratory analysis of a woman’s urine and blood in the second week after conception shows a 7-8-fold increase in hCG content, indicating normal processes.
Can you feel sick before your period: distinguishing PMS from pregnancy
Many people experience premenstrual syndrome. The reasons lie in changes in hormonal levels and combinations of hormones. Estrogen always dominates in the female body. The amount of progesterone is cyclical. At the moment of ovulation, fertilization, its concentration is maximum, remains at this level for implantation of the embryo in the uterine cavity, and remains until the 11th week of pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the egg dies and the hormone level drops.
As a result, the epithelial layer is rejected, accompanied by menstrual bleeding. The external manifestation of hormonal changes in a woman’s body is PMS. Its symptoms are varied and similar to the first signs of pregnancy. Nausea is one of them. Can you feel sick before your period? - many women ask themselves. The answer will be in the affirmative if the female body is systematically susceptible to such manifestations of the last phase of the cycle as weakness, dizziness, vomiting, skin rash, and emotional imbalance.
But it happens that the beginning of the menstrual cycle does not cause any particular inconvenience. And then suddenly, shortly before menstruation, nausea appears. In such a situation, the manifestation of the disease, the body’s reaction to poor-quality food, is excluded. There are two ways to confirm early pregnancy:
- passing a laboratory test for hCG;
- using a special test.
Since the first method is not available to everyone, we will focus on the second. The pharmacy chain offers a range of tests that identify pregnancy. From all the variety, choose one that responds to the minimum content of hCG in a woman’s urine. This test is called highly sensitive; it can be used even 10 days from the expected conception. With a high degree of probability, he will “answer” the question of whether he can vomit before menstruation.
Do pregnancy tests lie? - Interesting video
Tingling in the uterus: fiction or truth?
Pregnant women are almost always accompanied by uncharacteristic sensations. The reason for this is the same progesterone, which somewhat depresses the psyche, creating women’s fears and suspiciousness. But the tingling in the uterus is more a truth than a whim. Conception requires good blood supply to the pelvic organs and preparation of the uterus for implantation. It is literally riddled with blood vessels. Increased blood flow causes a barely noticeable tingling sensation.
After the implantation of the embryo, the uterus increases in volume, “winning” a more comfortable place from the neighboring abdominal organs, which is associated with some pain. Tingling in the uterus is accompanied by another symptom. At the time of menstruation, nagging pain appears in the lower abdomen. That is why doctors advise pregnant women to protect themselves in every possible way on such days: do not be nervous, reduce physical activity, and refrain from intimacy with your loved one.
Along with pain in the lower abdomen, pain in the lower back and lumbago may appear. You can fight them by changing body positions. If pain occurs while walking, you should lie down with a pillow under your back for comfort. If you get a shot while sitting, you need to get up and walk around. Useful for mother and baby.
Discharge before late pregnancy
Pregnancy is a physiological process associated with some inconveniences for a woman. One of them is vaginal discharge. The natural question is, can there be discharge before a delay in pregnancy?
We have already talked about some. This may be a consequence of implantation of a fertilized egg into the mucous membrane of the reproductive organ. The discharge has a specific color and appears for a short time.
But there is also vaginal discharge. Their appearance is quite understandable - they are caused by a rush of blood to the pelvic organs. The purpose of vaginal secretion is to protect the internal genital organs from the penetration of microorganisms. But his condition must be monitored. Since the influence of pathogenic microflora can be significant. A woman should be alerted to the changed color of the discharge and the appearance of an unpleasant odor.
Another problem associated with discharge before a delay in pregnancy is thrush. Yeast formations (candida family, Candida) are always present in the vagina, but healthy microflora suppresses their activity. Hypothermia, colds, impaired immunity can lead to the proliferation of fungus. As a result, unpleasant sensations appear, itching of the external genitalia, burning, and pain when urinating. Thrush during pregnancy requires mandatory treatment. Since there is a possibility of fetal infection and rupture during childbirth.
The very first signs of pregnancy are not always pleasant. But it is important for a young woman to pay attention to them. This will help maintain the health of the unborn baby and mother.
Many women who are planning a pregnancy or have already experienced the joy of motherhood are concerned about the same question - when do the first signs of pregnancy appear? This question is important, because often a woman decides to take a pregnancy test or consult a gynecologist precisely when there is a suspicion of pregnancy.
How do you know if you are pregnant? It’s very simple - pay close attention to the signs of pregnancy, and already in the very early stages. Knowing your body well, you can recognize the first signs of pregnancy even before your period - for example, there are many cases when women knew in advance that they were pregnant - they simply felt it, as we intuitively feel, for example, the approach of a thunderstorm through unnaturally calm air. The same is true in the case of pregnancy - it is often possible to recognize the signs of pregnancy already in the first week, when the very first signs of pregnancy appear.
The very first signs of pregnancy
Very often, after two lines appear on the test, a woman says to herself: “Wait! But I felt for a long time that I was pregnant!” For many, a positive test is not a surprise, but rather a confirmation of what intuition already suggested. What are the first changes in the body that give our subconscious a reason to suspect pregnancy when we ourselves are still driving away all sorts of assumptions, saying to ourselves: “Well, there’s no point in fantasizing. We need to at least wait for a delay!” The article collects and analyzes not only the classic signs of pregnancy, but also the signs of pregnancy described by participants in one of the pregnancy planning sites BEFORE THEY KNEW ABOUT PREGNANCY and during the week after.
Slight bleeding
The discharge can range from light bleeding to just a few brown droplets or even just a “yellowish mark” on the toilet paper. Usually the thought that accompanies them is: “Somehow my period is early this time” or “well, my period is here.” This implantation bleeding is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. Approximately 6 to 12 days after conception, the embryo is planted on the uterine wall. For some women, this process is accompanied by bleeding, but for many, no discharge appears at all, which is also normal.
Small discharge may periodically appear again on days when the fertilized egg is more actively “implanted” into the wall of the uterus. Most often they have a “creamy” consistency, yellow or pink. They may appear after a delay, but in this case it is necessary to consult a doctor to eliminate the threat of miscarriage.
Also, pink and yellow discharge can be caused by cervical erosion, which intensifies with the onset of pregnancy. Cervical erosion is a violation of the integrity of the vaginal part of the cervix. During pregnancy, it acquires an even brighter red color due to increased blood circulation to the cervix, and can bleed easily on contact.
Increased basal temperature, implantation retraction
When measuring basal temperature, a sign of pregnancy is the so-called “implantation sinking” - a sharp decrease in temperature for one day in the second phase. This is one of the signs most often observed in charts with confirmed pregnancy. This retraction can occur for two reasons: firstly, the production of the hormone progesterone, which is responsible for raising the temperature, begins to decrease from the middle of the second phase; with pregnancy, its production resumes again, which leads to temperature fluctuations. Secondly, during pregnancy, the hormone estrogen is released, which in turn lowers the temperature. The combination of these two hormonal shifts leads to the appearance of implantation retraction on the graph.
A basal temperature above 37 degrees is also considered a sign of developing pregnancy. True, it remains elevated only for the first few weeks, until the placenta begins to function.
Feeling unwell
Many women who do not know about their pregnancy believe that they have caught a cold and are sick. This is due to the fact that in the first trimester of pregnancy a woman’s body temperature is elevated; Fatigue also increases. Therefore, there is a feeling that the woman is getting sick.
But many people do get a little “sick,” probably due to a slight decrease in immunity. Complaints of a sore throat and runny nose are common. In this case, the main thing is not to treat yourself with strong medications that are contraindicated during pregnancy and to use more traditional medicine.
Increased breast sensitivity
Breast swelling or tenderness is a common sign of pregnancy that appears 1 to 2 weeks after conception. A woman may notice how her breasts have changed; they react to every, even slight touch, they hurt or swell, sometimes it is almost impossible to touch them. But there are pregnant women who “do not feel” their breasts in the first weeks of pregnancy, and some, on the contrary, are surprised that their breasts “strangely enough hurts before menstruation” and then find out about pregnancy. Pregnancy is also indicated by darkening of the skin around the nipples.
Feeling of “fullness”, heaviness in the pelvic area
During pregnancy, blood flow to the pelvic organs increases, and the uterus gradually enlarges. Therefore, many pregnant women “feel” their uterus from the first days of implantation and attribute it to the first signs of pregnancy. The other, less pleasant side of the coin is the appearance of hemorrhoids. For many, it appears in the second half of pregnancy due to the pressure of the growing fetus, but some expectant mothers (especially those who have given birth before) encounter this problem already in the first weeks of pregnancy, all due to the same increased blood flow.
Tingling in the uterus during pregnancy
Many pregnant women notice periodic tingling sensations in the uterus in the first or second week of pregnancy.
Fatigue/drowsiness, lack of concentration
Feeling tired or apathetic is a common sign of pregnancy before your period, which can appear as early as the first week after conception. One of its reasons is the increased production of the hormone “progesterone”; plus a general restructuring of the body for pregnancy. Progesterone depresses the psyche, which manifests itself in depression, irritability and drowsiness. Starting from the 10th week of pregnancy, the active hormone-producing function of the placenta begins. In accordance with the increase in pregnancy and fetal growth, in addition to progesterone, the level of estrogen increases, which has a stimulating effect on the psyche, and drowsiness disappears.
Now in the heat, now in the cold
Another early sign of pregnancy can be considered the fact that you feel either hot or cold and, accordingly, you can’t keep warm in any way in three pairs of woolen socks, then you get hot when it’s +10 outside and you’re in one T-shirt. This is due to increased body temperature in the first trimester of pregnancy and decreased blood pressure. Interestingly, many people note redness of the face in the evening.
Restless sleep
Many women who do not yet know about their pregnancy note that their sleep has become more restless. In the evening, they begin to go to bed earlier, and often simply “pass out”; they wake up on their own at 6-7 in the morning and cannot fall asleep again. There is a feeling of “brokenness” even after a full night’s sleep.
Nausea, increased salivation, aversion to smells
This classic sign of pregnancy often occurs between 2 and 8 weeks after conception. Some lucky women do not experience nausea throughout their entire pregnancy. However, 50% of women experience aversion to smells, nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy.
Vomiting during pregnancy can occur several times a day and is often accompanied by nausea and drooling. Vomiting is accompanied by a decrease in appetite, a change in taste and olfactory sensations. It is considered as a disorder of the neuroendocrine regulation of body functions, and the leading role in this belongs to a violation of the functional state of the central nervous system. However, such vomiting can also be caused by factors of an intragastric nature, often being an important symptom of dysfunction of the digestive system.
Along with vomiting during toxicosis in early pregnancy, due to severe irritation of the salivary center, drooling is often observed, which can lead to a significant and undesirable decrease in the pregnant woman’s body weight (up to 2-3 kg within one week). If copiously secreted saliva is swallowed, then, when it enters the stomach, it changes the acidity of gastric juice and causes disruption of digestive function.
It is important to consider that vomiting is a protective reaction, since in this case the body is freed from toxic and rejected substances. This is an evolutionary adaptation in response to harmful influences. At the same time, along with vomit, the body loses saliva, digestive juices containing proteins necessary for the body (including enzymes), electrolytes, and in some cases - partially or completely - the food taken. In this regard, with frequently repeated vomiting, water-salt, protein and fat metabolism, the balance of vitamins and minerals, and the activity of the endocrine glands are gradually disrupted.
Lower back pain
Mild pain, “lumbago” in the lower back, in the sacral area may also indicate early pregnancy; however, mild pain occurs periodically throughout the entire period of pregnancy.
In the early stages, “lumbago” often appears from the pelvic area to the legs.
Headache and migraines
A sudden increase in hormone levels in the body can cause headaches in early pregnancy, and therefore serves as an indirect sign of pregnancy. Usually, by the end of the first trimester, the headaches subside and leave the pregnant woman to enjoy her position.
Slight swelling of the hands
Progesterone promotes the retention of salts and fluid in the body, which can lead to slight swelling, when when you clench your hand into a fist, you feel that your fingers have become thicker.
Bloating, gas, intestinal disorders
A common sign of pregnancy is a noticeable increase in abdominal circumference in the very early stages of pregnancy, when the uterus is still slightly enlarged, associated with intestinal bloating. During the digestion process, gas formation always occurs in the intestines. During pregnancy, the intestines become more “lazy,” its peristalsis slows down, and, consequently, the rate of movement of intestinal contents decreases, its bloating increases, and constipation may appear. This is facilitated by hormonal changes characteristic of pregnancy, which leads to an increase in blood supply to the vessels of the abdominal cavity and, as a consequence, to a slight swelling of the intestinal walls.
Frequent urge to urinate
Frequent urination during the day and at night is a common early sign of pregnancy. It should be noted that there are no other painful sensations (pain, stinging, burning). These phenomena disappear by the 4th month of pregnancy. This is caused by significant hormonal changes that accompany pregnancy. The increased level of female sex hormones at first contributes to a significant rush of blood to the pelvic organs. Overflow of blood vessels causes temporary changes in the functioning of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. These phenomena decrease in the second trimester of pregnancy, however, they can safely be attributed to frequent signs of pregnancy.
Decreased pressure
A universal phenomenon during pregnancy is a slight decrease in blood pressure. If a woman had low blood pressure before pregnancy, then during pregnancy periodic states of a significant decrease in blood pressure (less than 90/60 mm Hg) are possible and, as a result, weakness, dizziness, headache, and fainting. Deterioration of health usually occurs during prolonged standing, when taking hot baths, during prolonged stay in a stuffy hot room, on an empty stomach. For pregnant women with a tendency to hypotension, the daily routine is especially important: night sleep 9-10 hours and daytime sleep 1-2 hours.
Increased appetite/cravings for certain foods
“Zhor” often accompanies a nascent pregnancy and is considered one of its signs. You may not necessarily feel the urge to indulge in pickles or vanilla ice cream, but many pregnant women still have cravings for certain foods.
Increased vaginal discharge, appearance of thrush
The secretion of secretions from the vagina increases - this is due to the increasing blood supply to the pelvic organs. During pregnancy, the concentration of hydrogen ions in vaginal secretions increases, which protect the expectant mother’s body from harmful microorganisms entering it. But, unfortunately, yeast fungi reproduce well in this environment, and because of this, pregnant women often develop thrush (candidiasis), which must be cured, otherwise the fetus may become infected, and during childbirth the tissues of the birth canal will tear more easily.
And finally, delayed menstruation
Late period/menstrual irregularity is the most well-known and common sign of pregnancy that forces a woman to take a pregnancy test. During pregnancy, a woman experiences a one-month delay in menstruation. Many pregnant women experience bleeding, but usually the period ends quickly and is less intense than usual. Delayed menstruation can be attributed to many reasons other than pregnancy. However, if you are sexually active and have a delay, it is better to take a pregnancy test.
Happy pregnancy and easy birth!
Pregnancy calendar.ru
Most women are familiar with the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Many of them suffer not so much from the ailments of menstruation itself, but from the condition that precedes it. The reason for this is the hormonal changes that occur in the body on the eve of menstruation. The functioning of various organs, as well as the nervous system, is disrupted. This leads to headaches, depression, and irritability. It is necessary to know what physiological processes they are associated with. Then it may be easier to cope with unpleasant symptoms.
After ovulation, the so-called luteal phase begins, which precedes the onset of menstruation. Preparation for it begins in the body in advance. Under the influence of hormones, changes occur in the condition of the mammary glands and genitals. The brain and central nervous system react to hormonal processes.
Most women experience characteristic pre-menstrual symptoms as a result. For some, they begin 2 days before menstruation, for others – 10. Disorders appear with varying degrees of severity. With the onset of critical days, they disappear. These symptoms are collectively called premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It has been noticed that PMS is stronger in women who suffer from gynecological or other diseases.
Night shift work, exposure to harmful substances, lack of sleep, poor diet, troubles and conflicts are all factors that increase ailments before menstruation.
Note: There is a theory that discomfort before menstruation is the body’s reaction to the lack of conception, which is the natural completion of the physiological processes occurring in the female reproductive system.
Signs of approaching period
Manifestations of PMS may vary for each individual woman. The nature of the manifestations is influenced by heredity, lifestyle, age, and health status. The most obvious signs that your period is approaching include the following:
- irritability;
- depressed state, feeling of inexplicable melancholy, depression;
- fatigue, headaches;
- drop in blood pressure;
- inability to concentrate, deterioration of attention and memory;
- sleep disturbance;
- constant feeling of hunger;
- painful sensations in the chest;
- the occurrence of edema and weight gain due to fluid retention in the body;
- indigestion, bloating;
- nagging pain in the lower back.
There is a mild form of PMS (the presence of 3-4 symptoms that disappear with the onset of menstruation) and a severe form (the appearance of most symptoms simultaneously 5-14 days before menstruation). It is not always possible for a woman to cope with severe symptoms on her own. Sometimes only hormonal medications can help.
Types of PMS
Depending on what signs predominate in a woman before her period, the following forms of PMS are distinguished.
Edema. With this form, women feel pain in the mammary glands more acutely, their legs and arms swell, skin itching, and increased sweating appear.
Cephalgic. Every time before menstruation, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and a headache radiating to the eyes appear. Often such symptoms are combined with heart pain.
Neuropsychic. Symptoms such as depressed mood, irritability, tearfulness, aggressiveness, and intolerance to loud sounds and bright lights predominate.
Krizovaya. Before menstruation, women experience crises: blood pressure rises, pulse quickens, limbs go numb, pain appears in the chest area, and fear of death arises.
Causes of various PMS symptoms
The severity of PMS manifestations depends mainly on the degree of hormonal changes and the state of the nervous system. The psychological attitude plays an important role. If a woman is active and busy with interesting things, then she does not feel the symptoms of menstruation as acutely as a suspicious pessimist, suffering from the mere thought of upcoming ailments. Every symptom can have an explanation.
Increased body weight. On the one hand, its cause is a decrease in the level of estrogen in the blood in the second phase of the cycle. By accumulating adipose tissue capable of secreting estrogens, the body compensates for their deficiency. There is also a deficiency of glucose in the blood, which leads to an increased feeling of hunger. For many women, eating delicious food is a way to distract themselves from troubles and worries.
Changes in mood. The cause of aggressiveness, irritability, anxiety, and depression is the lack of “pleasure hormones” in the body (endorphin, serotonin, dopamine), the production of which decreases during this period.
Nausea. Before menstruation, the uterus enlarges slightly due to the growth and loosening of the endometrium. At the same time, it can put pressure on the nerve endings, the irritation of which causes the gag reflex. Nausea can be caused by taking hormonal medications and contraceptives. If a woman constantly experiences this symptom before her period, then this remedy may be contraindicated for her. It needs to be replaced with something else.
Warning: Nausea before your expected period can be a sign of pregnancy. With this in mind, a woman should first of all do a test and visit a doctor to clarify her condition.
Pain in the lower abdomen. A slight nagging pain in the lower abdomen is considered normal before menstruation if the woman does not have cycle disorders, there are no pathological discharge or other signs of genital diseases. If the pain is severe and does not subside after taking painkillers, then you must definitely go to the doctor and undergo an examination to find out the causes of the pathology.
Temperature increase. Before menstruation, the temperature can normally rise to 37°-37.4°. The appearance of a higher temperature becomes a sign of the presence of an inflammatory process in the uterus or ovaries. As a rule, there are other signs of disturbances that force the woman to visit a doctor.
The appearance of acne. This symptom occurs before menstruation as a result of endocrine disorders, intestinal diseases, decreased body defenses, and impaired fat metabolism due to changes in hormone production.
The appearance of edema. Hormonal changes cause a slowdown in the process of water-salt metabolism in the body, which leads to fluid retention in the tissues.
Enlargement of the mammary glands. Progesterone levels increase and the body prepares for the possible onset of pregnancy. The ducts and lobules swell, blood circulation increases. The breast tissue is stretched, which leads to a dull pain when you touch it.
Video: Why does your appetite increase before your period?
Under what conditions do similar manifestations occur?
Women often confuse the symptoms of PMS and pregnancy. Nausea, dizziness, enlargement and tenderness of the mammary glands, and increased leucorrhoea are characteristic of both conditions.
If there are symptoms and your periods are late, then you are most likely pregnant. To make sure that this is exactly the case, it is recommended to take a blood test for human chorionic hormone levels (hCG is formed after pregnancy).
Similar symptoms also appear with endocrine diseases, the formation of mammary gland tumors, and the use of hormonal drugs.
Symptoms of approaching first menstruation in adolescents
Puberty begins in girls aged 11-15 years. Their character is finally established only after 1-2 years. A girl can find out about the imminent onset of her first menstruation by characteristic manifestations. Already 1.5-2 years before the onset of this event, a teenage girl begins to develop white discharge. Immediately before the appearance of the first menstruation, leucorrhoea becomes more intense and thin.
A slight nagging pain in the ovaries may occur due to their growth and stretching. PMS often manifests itself quite weakly, but there may also be deviations comparable in nature to the manifestations of PMS in adult women. One of the characteristic signs of teenage PMS is the formation of acne on the face. The reason is fluctuations in the level of sex hormones, the influence of this process on the condition of the skin.
Video: Signs of approaching menstruation in girls
Manifestations of PMS in premenopausal women
After 40-45 years, women experience the first signs of aging and a decrease in the level of sex hormones. Menstrual irregularities occur, metabolism slows down, and chronic diseases of the genital organs often worsen. The condition of the nervous system worsens. As a result, the manifestations of PMS intensify even more.
Many women of this age experience severe headaches, dizziness, increased sweating, increased heart rate, mood swings, and depression before menstruation. Often, such manifestations of PMS are so painful that to alleviate the condition, hormonal therapy is prescribed with drugs that regulate the content of estrogen, progesterone and other hormones in the body.
